The Angels' way - A Supernatural Story

21

And here they are again. Maeve and her father stand at the threshold of Heaven, a realm shimmering with ethereal light, far removed from the dangers lurking in the world below. Hope flickers within Maeve; perhaps this time things will be different. Ezrael assured her he wouldn't impose his will, and Castiel promised her a "vacation"-time to reconnect, maybe even a chance to see Louis again. With a steadier heart, she steps through the colorful gates of this higher world, but her optimism falters almost instantly.

"Maeve," Ezrael says, his expression turning serious, "I'd like to speak with you for a moment, if you don't mind."

Not wanting to stir up trouble, she nods and gestures for Castiel to stay put.

"Stay close," she whispers, a hint of concern in her voice.

"I'll be right behind you," he assures with a wink, and Maeve believes him. She follows the Chief of Angels into his strangely adorned office, a space filled with celestial artifacts. As she glances out the window, she's almost able to discern shapes and colors dancing in the light. But Ezrael's voice pulls her back to the present as he settles cross-legged across from her.

"Maeve, I've been informed about what happened in Denver-with those demons, particularly Davos. Your actions were... remarkable. But they shouldn't have happened."

"You're right." A heavy sigh escapes her lips. "But Davos is gone now, along with his minions. I can only hope that things will improve."

"Oh, my poor girl. It wasn't Davos who sought you out-not truly. He was merely a pawn in a greater game, working for the most significant demon of all."

"Oh really?" she replies, her curiosity piqued. "Who?"

"His name is Crowley."

The name sends a shiver down Maeve's spine, a memory of late nights spent poring over Sam's hunting journal flashing in her mind.

"He's... the King of Hell, isn't he?"

"Indeed," Ezrael affirms, his gaze steady. "He's immensely powerful. If he were to capture you... I shudder to think of the consequences. This is why I wanted to bring you here, to keep you safe, at least for the time being."

Silence envelops them, and Maeve's thoughts drift back to the window, where she wonders if the shimmering forms outside are lost souls yearning for peace.

"Nevertheless," Ezrael resumes, rising to his feet, "I want you to understand that I have complete faith in you. I believe your choices will always lead you toward a fulfilling path. You possess the strength to defend yourself. But... I worry for you and your father. Castiel is one of Heaven's finest, and I hope to protect you both in my own way. I promise, no one will keep you here against your will."

With time, Maeve finds her apprehension towards Ezrael dissipating. He's not the enemy she had envisioned; rather, he possesses a kind of rigid kindness, typical of angels. She nods softly at him.

"Thank you, Ezrael. I appreciate your assistance and the sanctuary you're offering us."

"The pleasure is all mine."

As she prepares to leave the room, Ezrael calls out to her one last time. She turns back, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.

"Maeve, enjoy your time with Castiel. Against all odds, he appears to be a good father."

"I will," she replies, her smile warm.

And that's precisely her plan.

Meanwhile, on Earth...

"It's madness."

Dean, Sam, and Bobby sit on the porch of Singer's house, tossing a ball to Bun-Bun, who leaps and bounds with joyous abandon.